Years and years ago, I made the decision to never put on any makeup. I was pretty young, and at the time it seemed obvious to me that makeup and other sorts of cosmetics were inauthentic and wrong. Over the years, though, I kind of rethought all of that. I realized that there were plenty of cosmetic procedures and products that I didn't have a problem with—like cosmetic surgery for people who have been disfigured, for example, or cosmetic dental work. And I realized that I tried hard to look my best in other ways, like when I picked out clothes to wear. I started to think that maybe my position on cosmetics didn't make much sense, after all.
Now that I'm in college, I kind of want to start getting into cosmetics after all. I don't know if I'll go all-out or not—though I do have a tendency to go to extremes when I get interested in something! For now, though, I'd at least like to start using some basic stuff. The problem is, I've missed out on years of makeup knowledge and practice. I'm embarrassed to ask for help because then people will find out how little I know! Experts, can you tell me how to get started?
There's nothing wrong with choosing to forgo cosmetics, but we're glad that you've updated your position on beauty products and processes. Loving makeup is just as valid as choosing to skip it, and there's nothing inherently better or worse about either. And you are quite right to note that makeup is just an extension of other cosmetic concerns. If you get teeth pulled, you'll probably get dental implants or a bridge to cover up the missing spot. You cut your hair and buy new clothes when the old ones start to look lousy. You do things all the time that are designed to make you look better, than that's normal—or good, even, since it shows that you value how others perceive you. As long as your pursuing your best self in healthy ways, then there's nothing wrong with putting on as much or as little makeup as you'd like.
But how do you get started? First of all, we'd suggest that you worry a little less about what others think of your lack of makeup prowess. A trusted friend, family member, or roommate can give you a hands-on lesson makeup basics that may be more helpful than the things that you can read online.
With that said, there are a few things that you should know from the get-go.
The first thing to know is that cosmetics are all about your natural features—in particular, your skin. Your beauty routine starts with proper skincare, which includes washing and moisturizing your face regularly. Furthermore, your skin type and features will determine the nature of the first beauty product we need to talk about: Foundation. Your foundation should match your skin, not just in tone but in features. Dry skin, for example, will take a hydrating foundation best.
Next up is powder, which is used to fine-tune your tone and to reduce any shiny or oily aspects of your look. It's important to get quality cosmetics and to match your choice to your skin tone. The best makeup looks natural and suits you. That doesn't necessarily mean that it should look like you're not wearing makeup at all (though that is a popular goal), but it should always mean that your makeup looks like it belongs on your face and your face in particular. Your makeup and your natural looks should be working as a team!
Bronzer and blush are two things that you can apply after powder. Bronzer is used for contouring, while blush is designed to get a little color into your cheeks. Be sure to blend blush properly and work it into the powder.
Time for the finishing touches. Lipstick can add a pop of color or a more subtle, natural-looking boost. Eyeliner and mascara define your eyes in ways that can be simple or daring. And eye shadow makes your eyes pop, too—and can sometimes come in fun and interesting colors.
Want to take things to the next level? Then you might want to consider things other than the classics. False eyelashes are a great example of the sort of thing that you can do to go beyond your natural features in fun and stylish ways. There are some really cool things going on with false lashes these days, including magnetic lashes that can be applied without any sort of adhesive. Convenient, right?
Ultimately, how intense you choose to get about your makeup process and goals is totally up to you—as it should be!
